Top 5 Fuel-Efficient 2010 New Cars for Tall Drivers

When shopping for new cars, the idea of climbing behind a fuel-efficient compact vehicle isn't exactly a relished experience for most tall drivers. However, there are plenty of gas-sipping vehicles out there that have the proportions and seat adjustments necessary to accommodate those of us that are 6-foot and up. Keep reading to compare five of the best fuel-efficient 2010 new cars for taller drivers.

If you're shopping for a mid-size hybrid sedan, then chances are you'll be most comfortable in a Nissan Altima Hybrid. The Altima boasts some of the best front-passenger proportions in its class. It also comes standard with a tilt and telescoping steering column and optional with an 8-way power driver's seat. On the performance end, the Altima Hybrid delivers an exceptional 35 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

If the base $26,780 MSRP is too rich for your blood, then the traditional Altima may be a better buy with a base MSRP of $19,900.

Front head room: 40.6 inches Front shoulder room: 55.7 inches Front hip room: 56.8 inches Front leg room: 44.1 inches

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If you've got a broad frame, or the Altima Hybrid isn't available in your state, then the 2010 Fusion Hybrid may be a good alternative. Though head room and leg room are slightly less, the Fusion deliver additional shoulder room. With 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, it also beats the Altima in fuel efficiency. At $27,950, its base price is a little high. However, many people find the level of comfort and craftsmanship well worth the price.

Front head room: 38.7 inches Front shoulder room: 57.4 inches Front hip room: 54.0 inches Front leg room: 42.3 inches

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Yes, the Hyundai Elantra is a compact vehicle. However, tall drivers will be surprised by the amount of front passenger space afforded by this bargain offering. Driver proportions are on par with many mid-size sedans, and the $14,145 base MSRP may be incentive enough to get you to take the car for a test drive. The Elantra earns a maximum of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Taller drivers may want to splurge for the Elantra SE model, which includes a telescoping steering column.

Front head room: 40.0 inches Front shoulder room: 55.5 inches Front hip room: 54.2 inches Front leg room: 43.5 inches

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Ford's twin hybrid SUVs offer good interior volume for larger drivers. The standard power driver's seat and high sitting position also prove to be well accommodating for taller frames. EPA estimates suggest gas mileage of 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. If you need the added storage space offered by an SUV, but would rather not pay the near $30,000 base price tag, then the standard Ford Escape or Mercury Mariner may fit the bill. At 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, the non-hybrid models are still above average in the category of fuel efficiency.

Front head room: 40.4 inches Front shoulder room: 55.5 inches Front hip room: 53.3 inches Front leg room: 41.6 inches

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While not available as a hybrid model, the Honda Accord is still one of the most fuel-efficient mid-size cars available. And with proportions that have actually forced the EPA to list the Accord in the large car category, it is also one of the roomiest. Gas mileage comes in at 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Given the $21,055 base price tag, those numbers add up to a good overall value. All models come standard with a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. A power driver's seat is optional.

Front head room: 41.4 inches Front shoulder room: 58.2 inches Front hip room: 56.6 inches Front leg room: 42.5 inches

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